Marcelo and Lourenço Strengthen Ties: "We Only Gain by Treating Each Other Well"

In a ceremony at the Palácio de Belém, marking the start of a three-day visit by Angolan President João Lourenço to Portugal, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa highlighted the strong bilateral relations between the two countries. Marcelo emphasized, "We are faithful to our peoples, who are in permanent contact."

Marcelo pointed out the significant Angolan community in Portugal, describing it as "large, beloved, respected, and fruitful," and one of the top three communities in the country. He stressed, "We need each other and know that we only gain by treating each other well, because those who treat others badly are mistreated in return."

The Portuguese President also welcomed the 80,000 Angolan brothers and sisters living and working in Portugal across various sectors, including students, researchers, artists, managers, and entrepreneurs, with special mention to those in social care and health sectors.

João Lourenço Thanks Marcelo for Frequent Visits to Angola

João Lourenço expressed gratitude for the friendship between the two nations and peoples, noting Marcelo as the Portuguese head of state who has visited Angola the most. He highlighted the current high level of relations and the intention to further improve them, especially as Angola celebrates 50 years of independence.

Lourenço's visit includes meetings with the Portuguese Prime Minister and the President of the Assembly of the Republic, along with an official dinner at the Palácio da Ajuda as the guest of honor. The visit also involves discussions with the Group of African Ambassadors accredited in Lisbon, given Lourenço's role as the current chair of the African Union.

The visit comes shortly after Marcelo referred the Foreigners' Law to the Constitutional Court, a move Lourenço acknowledged might cause "some discomfort" considering the Angolan community in Portugal.